Shady lady: The best sun hats for women
Sun protection doesn’t get more stylish than this
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Whether you’re sailing the Mediterranean, indulging in some R&R in the Maldives or simply taking a stroll around Holland Park, no sun worshipper worth their salt should be seen without a stylish hat to avoid sun damage and score some serious style points. While sunglasses and potent sun creams (SPF50 is de rigueur these days) are certainly non-negotiables in your summer routine, the best sun hats go a long way in shielding your skin, eyes and scalp from the damaging effects of UVA and UVB rays.
But let’s pause for a moment to clarify: if the word ‘hat’ tends to conjure images of over-the-top designs for special occasions, such as weddings or the races, these are not those. For SS25, hats are truly enjoying their moment in the sun (pardon the pun), from oversized raffia designs to crocheted bucket hats (there’s a summer hat to suit every style). Whether you’re optimistically waiting for sun-drenched days in the UK or have a summer holiday planned, read on for our pick of the best sun hats to buy now and wear for years to come.
Zimmermann macramé raffia bucket hat
Australian brand Zimmermann knows a thing or two about sun and style. Take this raffia bucket hat, for example. A chic woven design finished with a pretty fringed brim, it will instantly transport you to the buzz and beauty of Bondi Beach.
Loewe x Paula's Ibiza raffia sun hat
You don’t have to be holidaying on the Balearic island that inspired Loewe x Paula’s Ibiza’s floppy sun hat to wear it, but we think it would make for a great backdrop. Woven from raffia and embellished with a leather logo plaque, wear it with a breezy sundress and beachy waves.
Toteme straw sun hat
Artfully woven with a two-tone paper straw, this wide-brimmed Toteme hat is as elegant as it comes. A monochrome palette that is modern yet timeless, wear yours with a sleek blowout and statement sunglasses.
Lack Of Colour raffia cowboy hat
If you’ve caught cowboy fashion fever this season, bring a Western edge to your summer looks with Lack Of Colour’s raffia cowboy hat. A minimalist but highly effective design, top off your outfit with some Californian cool, carefree beach vibes wherever you go.
Etro abstract-print bucket hat
A masterclass in dopamine dressing, Etro offers a bright bucket hat emblazoned with an abstract version of its signature paisley prints. Wear with a monochrome outfit to add a pop of colour or go all-out in the matching shirt.
Valentino Chevron 24 straw sun hat
Not one for in-your-face prints? Add a subtle infusion of colour with Valentino’s wide-brimmed straw hat adorned with a ladylike silk scarf. This is the best friend your summer dress collection has been crying out for.
Jacquemus Le Bob Artichaut bucket hat
Jacquemus’ bucket hat features a relaxed frayed trim and a perennially fashionable khaki colour hue. An effortless style, that also gains practical points for its toggle fastening, it will fit right in from the beaches of Cannes and Cornwall to the Soho House pool.
Roger Vivier Très Vivier straw boater
Summer weddings and garden parties on the horizon? Invest in a smart boater. This Roger Vivier hat – woven from a light-hued straw with a pretty blue grosgrain ribbon and embellished with the brand’s elegant crystal buckle – will make for the perfect finishing touch to formal outfits.
Burberry Gabardine Bucket Hat
For the ultimate cool-girl bucket hat, look to Burberry. This classic design in a punchy red shade is made from water-resisatnt cotton and embroidered with the fashion house’s archival Knight stamp motif. It’s sure to be a summer staple for everything from weekend brunches to music festivals.
Eugenia Kim Emmanuelle fedora
Eugenia Kim’s Emmanuelle hat is a great feminine option. The wide-brimmed fedora is crafted from hemp with a brushstroke-printed grosgrain band for an elegant style to wear from picnics in the park to summer weddings to beachside getaways. Pair with big shades for instant glamour.
Ultraviolhat crocheted bucket hat
Based on the Italian Riviera, founder Pasquale Putrino’s vibrant accessories are inspired by his mother’s intricate crochet techniques. This colourful bucket hat exemplifies the playful design language that has made the brand a cult favourite.
Gigi Burris Claiborne straw sunhat
With an array of bikinis, kaftans and wedge heels, you’ve got the basics of a chic summer holiday wardrobe a la Côte d’Azur covered. The finishing touch? This wide brimmed raffia boater hat, complete with elegant grosgrain neck tie for windy evenings by the sea – or aboard your yacht.
Alémais Aquatica printed linen sunhat
Cut from breathable linen and printed with summery sea-inspired motifs, Alémais’ Aquatica sun hat is ideal for an afternoon in the garden. Alternatively, wear it beach or poolside for a playful and vibrant look, or with a maxi skirt and vibrant enamel jewellery for a romantic summer date.
Rails Crete straw bucket hat
A classic design with a twist, Rails’ Crete bucket hat takes the traditional bucket hat and adds shell detailing around the rim for a playful, seaside-inspired edge. Crafted from a breathable tanned rattan, wear on your Greek island retreat or UK staycation alike and you’ll be sure to turn heads.
Read more: Why a camp collar shirt is the epitome of casual summer style